Back to back wins, 7 points out of the last 9 available. Newcastle United have definitely turned a corner!
Rafael Benitez’s men have got their season back on track with their form in recent games. The Magpies look more like the side of last season, one that finished the campaign in 10th place. Bournemouth were the latest visitors to St James’ Park, Newcastle ran out worthy winners, although it wasn’t always plain sailing.
Newcastle took the lead in the 7th minute when DeAndre Yedlin outpaced Adam Smith, passing the ball to Rondon in the box, who tucked it away at the second attempt. The early goal was needed to settle any nerves around the ground. The atmosphere was a huge improvement on previous home games, the crowd were right behind their side, the Newcastle players were thriving off it.
After Rondon had struck, Newcastle were lucky not to concede a penalty after Fernandez caught Brooks in the box, the referee waved away the protests. Newcastle doubled their lead in the 39th minute, when the very impressive Ki switched the ball to Kenedy, who whipped in a lethal ball, Rondon launched himself towards the ball and fired in a bullet of a header. It was a goal that Newcastle legend Alan Shearer would’ve been proud of.
Bournemouth managed to pull one back in the 6th minute of first half stoppage time, of which there were 8 after Adam Smith’s nasty looking injury. The goal came from another set piece, something that will frustrate Benitez, Newcastle have conceded more goals from set pieces than any other team in the league. The corner was whipped in and Lerma got in front of his man to head past a diving Dubravka.
Newcastle had a whole host of chances, most falling the way of Rondon who really should have claimed his hat trick, nevertheless the Venezuelan international put in a superb performance. Not only were his two goals hugely important, his hold up play was fantastic, he has set the standard now in terms of his level of performances. If Newcastle and Rondon continue to play like that, the Magpies will continue to soar up the league.
Newcastle face Burnley at Turf Moor after the international break, the Magpies will be hoping to pick up another three points as they look to drag themselves away from danger.